Totally engrossing southern gothic tale which takes place in the racially segreated South of the depression era. Two children find the body of a dead black woman near the river and fear that the fabled Goat Man is responsible. The ensuing investigation into the murder lead the boy and his family through the many layers of society in the tiny rural community and ultimately into the path of the real murderer. I found it hard to put down once begun. Being from the south and having grown up hearing stories from my parents and grandparents of life in the segregated South, this story really resonated in so many ways. The story is a murder mystery but it is also a coming of age tale and a glimpse of the lives of people affected by racial segregation and prejudice. Joe Lansdale is a wonderful writer and has also written several other Southern mystery books - you might want to check out "The Drive-In" or "A Thin Dark Line".

Share/Like this Review?

What a great read! The character's are engaging, the story is captivating. The descriptive language is rich throughout the entire book. The setting is in Texas; in fact, I feel like I just visited Texas after reading the book.

Share/Like this Review?

Written in the manner of Harper Lee and William Faulkner, this takes you back to another time and place. Set in the East Texas in the depression of the 30's, murder by a serial killer within this small community becomes turning point of another story of a young boy growing up in rural America. Wonderfully and powerfully written, this will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Share/Like this Review?

This was a great book, much like "To Kill a Mockingbird" which I adore... I am so glad I was able to get a copy and read it, I have already passed it on to my mom!!!!

Share/Like this Review?

Very well done. I could not put the book down, each page brought a new piece of a puzzle.

Share/Like this Review?

I really enjoyed this book. This book dealt with the ugly face of racism in the 1930"s, while still managing to tell its own story. You came to know the people in the book, while still being amazed at their plight and the unsettled social times. Joe Lansdale takes you on a journey that opens your eyes to some of lifes brutal realities, then waits right up to the final chapters before revealing the identity of his offender. This book is thought provoking, turns you from laughter to action and suspense, and boldly reminds you of mans inhumanity to man. This is one of those dark novels that grip you and forces you down in the depths of distruction, commands you to continue to read, but then takes you back where you began the story, in a much better(?) day and time.

I would not recommend this book for those who cannot read about past racial intolerances because Lansdale does a very good job of bringing to light the injustices of racial inequality of the 1930's.

Share/Like this Review?